Seated and Standing Tall Together

Michael & Lisa Porter: A portrait

Michael & Lisa Porter: A portrait

March 16, 1998

Six days out of the week a dusty blue station wagon winds its way up the driveway to the  Oral Roberts University campus and another college day begins for Michael and Lisa Porter.  As they make their way to class, Lisa smiles a greeting from behind Michael’s wheelchair as they join other students in the rush to morning classes.

Like many commuters, the Porters enjoy getting to know other students and participating in university events.  But Michael and Lisa are a step beyond the average commuter.  Their many contrasts set them apart.

Michael is 32.  Lisa is 21.  He is confined to a wheelchair; she takes an aerobic class at a gym.  Since their relationship began in 1997, it has been these striking differences which have drawn Michael and Lisa together. Continue reading

San Carlos University Desfile Bufo Parade (Huelga de Dolores)

Masked studentsEvery year, students from the public San Carlos Universityof Guatemala  (Universidad San Carlos De Guatemala) gather for the Desfile Bufo…a time of student drinking, extortion and rants about public officials.

Students take a week or so off of classes right aroundThe parade in action!

Semana Santa (in 2011 it was the week plus a few days prior to Semana Santa) and on the parade day (also called the “Huelga de Dolores” parade)  they take to the streets dressed in masks that look like colorful Ku Klux Klan outfits or Halloween costumes. Continue reading